Des Moines Storytellers Project: Recent Episodes
Des Moines Register
An evening of live storytelling, the Des Moines Storytellers Project features community members coached by Des Moines Register journalists taking the mic to tell true, first-person stories.
We believe everyone HAS a story and everyone CAN tell that story.
Learn more at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
How Des Moines Register reporter Phillip Sitter found himself in Ukraine in the midst of Russia's war to celebrate a friend's birthday.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 18, 2024, at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
The doctor told Diane Kolmer she needed to take a break from her job to relearn to eat and live. A trip to Paris helped change her perspective.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 18, 2024, at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Kory May found racial profiling didn't stop at the Canadian border.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 18, 2024, at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
John Sorrell landed in Turkey quite literally in the middle of a coup. How he leaned on curiosity to make it home safely.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 18, 2024, at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Nicole Schrader overcame vacation paralysis to find something meaningful. Now she embraces that fear to live a full life.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 18, 2024, at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Deborah Svec-Carstens found herself by being vulnerable with a tight-knit community in a foreign country after an assault.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Community" on Feb. 27, 2024 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Kenny Gaskin spent his childhood looking up to his teachers. Now he's a teacher with DMPS inspiring students and building a classroom community.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Community" on Feb. 27, 2024 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Jordan Brooks felt like he didn't belong — until he discovered art. Now he uses it to help others build their communities.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Community" on Feb. 27, 2024 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Erlin Kakkanad wasn't embracing her true self when her son asked an innocent question: "Mama, why am I brown?" It led to a long journey of discovery.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Community" on Feb. 27, 2024 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Jim Sayers entered an Iowa prison thinking every inmate was the same. He left with a close-knit community.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Community" on Feb. 27, 2024 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
From homemade school clothes to weekly chore lists, Louise O'Donnell's parents showed their 13 children what it was like to put family first.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Family" on Oct. 24, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Ehsan Shaban found family in Iowa when he fled the war in Afghanistan. They were refugees themselves.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Family" on Oct. 24, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Luisita McBurney found herself alone after arriving in the U.S. So she created the Filipino American Society so other immigrants wouldn't feel stuck
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Family" on Oct. 24, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Sonya Jackson's great aunt Lulu was the first Black woman in Iowa to earn a Ph.D. What lessons she and her grandmother taught her growing up.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Family" on Oct. 24, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Sam Blum always felt like an outcast, until he found others like him at metal shows across Iowa and the world.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Family" on Oct. 24, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Monica Leo was part of the only Western puppeteer troupe to be invited to East Berlin in the '80s, where she learned maybe we're more alike than we are different.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 20, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
It wasn't clear that Keith Knapp would make it out of Argentina before the country closed its borders at midnight. He had just minutes to spare.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 20, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Olesya Holker started traveling as a child with her mother, a Russian actress. Her most notable trip started in Las Vegas and eventually led to Iowa.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 20, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Shir Agha Safi grew up around war and later fought in the Afghan National Army. Now he's fighting to help other refugees in Iowa live good lives.
This story was first told during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 20, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Susan Sims wanted to see the real China after studying in Taiwan in 1986, though she didn't have much but the clothes on her back. A hilarious adventure ensued.
Susan told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Travel" on June 20, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Sarah Trone Garriott realized her first impressions of a couple she helped marry while an intern Lutheran minister were wrong. How scripture helped her realize that.
Sarah told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Love” on Feb. 14, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Years of therapy and self love led to a new life for Sam Freese after their husband, who had increasingly become withdrawn, was criminally charged.
Sam told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Love” on Feb. 14, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
As a wife of a man 20 years older, Anissa Deay is moving from partner to caretaker and learning about the complications that come with it.
Anissa told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Love” on Feb. 14, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
From his mother walking up a flight of steps to see him in a play, to his father getting her out of bed each day: How love defined a relationship with illness.
Patrick told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Love” on Feb. 14, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Dan Douglas first met his wife 52 years ago when he served in Botswana for the Peace Corps.
Dan told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Love” on Feb. 14, 2023 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Billy Weathers, also known as B.WELL, the artist and philanthropist will not compromise until his vision is realized. But his obsession stems beyond that.
Billy told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Obsessions" on Oct. 25, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Cody Goodwin lived and breathed wrestling for 14 years — but he hated it. Now an award-winning journalist at the Des Moines Register, he's fallen back in love with the sport.
Cody told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Obsessions" on Oct. 25, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
You can follow his reporting at DesMoinesRegister.com.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Tim Johnson made it his mission to let no Iowan go hungry. His life's calling came after he nearly drowned in Puerto Rico.
Tim told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Obsessions" on Oct. 25, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
From an imaginary duck friend named Bego to a children's museum — How Julie Burtnette's imagination has added magic to her life.
Julie told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's “Obsessions" on Oct. 25, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
It took a two-year stay in federal prison for Randy Brown to turn his life around — for the better.
Warning:This story includes discussion of addiction, the death of children and sexual offenses.
Randy told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
It took a two-year stay in federal prison for Randy Brown to turn his life around — for the better.
Warning:This story includes discussion of addiction, the death of children and sexual offenses.
Randy told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Rick Kievits was determined to stay in the United States after a year studying abroad. But he took bad advice that led to a visa denial.
Rick told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Rick Kievits was determined to stay in the United States after a year studying abroad. But he took bad advice that led to a visa denial.
Rick told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
At 40, Julie Gammack was craving something new. So despite her friends' advice, she left her longtime job — only to have it fall apart 6 weeks later.
Julie told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
At 40, Julie Gammack was craving something new. So despite her friends' advice, she left her longtime job — only to have it fall apart 6 weeks later.
Julie told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Kiranmai Yarlagadda was taught to keep all emotions to herself, leading to shyness and insecurity. But she overcame that with the help of her daughter.
Kiranmai told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Kiranmai Yarlagadda was taught to keep all emotions to herself, leading to shyness and insecurity. But she overcame that with the help of her daughter.
Kiranmai told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Gality Levy Freylack knew she should have said no when her father asked to take a secret trip to visit her grandparents in Tel Aviv. Following the trip she spent decades listening to bad advice.
Galit told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Gality Levy Freylack knew she should have said no when her father asked to take a secret trip to visit her grandparents in Tel Aviv. Following the trip she spent decades listening to bad advice.
Galit told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Bad Advice" on Aug. 30, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
It took three trips around the world for Brenda McGuire to find the love of her life — a man she could have met in Des Moines.
Brenda told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
It took three trips around the world for Brenda McGuire to find the love of her life — a man she could have met in Des Moines.
Brenda told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Akwi Nji found herself on a plane back to Africa after her father's sudden death. She feared the distance with family she hadn't seen for two decades.
Akwi told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Akwi Nji found herself on a plane back to Africa after her father's sudden death. She feared the distance with family she hadn't seen for two decades.
Akwi told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Erik Dominguez' life in Tucson was awkward and hard. So when he was called back to a conference there, he dreaded what the visit would dredge up.
Erik told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Erik Dominguez' life in Tucson was awkward and hard. So when he was called back to a conference there, he dreaded what the visit would dredge up.
Erik told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
When Coral Thede's father died, she traveled the world to find peace and a new outlook on life.
Coral told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
When Coral Thede's father died, she traveled the world to find peace and a new outlook on life.
Coral told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
What was supposed to be a picturesque family vacation turned into one wild ride for Robert Warren. Think a packed car, contraband cigarettes and a tiny fishing lodge.
Robert told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
What was supposed to be a picturesque family vacation turned into one wild ride for Robert Warren. Think a packed car, contraband cigarettes and a tiny fishing lodge.
Robert told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Voyages" on June 14, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Every year Tony Dahlman gets a call on his birthday from Saddam Hussein. He shares the backstory and how this tradition showcases an act of familial love.
Tony told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Growing Up" on April 26, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
How one Iowan made the bold move to join her small-town boys’ wrestling team and helped pave the way for generations of female athletes to come.
Aymi told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Growing Up" on April 26, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Jim Ramm grew up as a half-Asian boy in the Midwest. He shares how he embraced forgiveness after hearing negative stereotypes about his Japanese culture throughout his childhood.
Jim told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Growing Up" on April 26, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Jeff Clothier shares how a sabotaged prom date turned into a lifelong friendship.
Jeff told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Growing Up" on April 26, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Blake Carlson's grandma "never really grew up." He tells how her eccentricities helped him to embrace his disability.
Blake told this story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Growing Up" on April 26, 2022 at Hoyt Sherman Place.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project believes everyone has a story and everyone can tell it.
Des Moines Storytellers Project events are filled with neighbors and notables who have a true, first-person story they’re willing to share in 8-10 minutes in front of a live audience.
See past stories, learn how to share your own or grab tickets to a future show at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
One man’s lessons in writing love songs.
Chad Elliot told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Love" on Feb. 15, 2022.
Everyone predicted this marriage wouldn’t last.
David Grieser told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Love" on Feb. 15, 2022.
How a bisexual woman found love with a straight white male, despite all their differences.
Lea Collins told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Love" on Feb. 15, 2022.
How this Iowan learned to love all sides of herself.
Lina Ta told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Love" on Feb. 15, 2022.
If he loves you, you’ll know it. If he doesn’t, you’ll be confused.
Preshia Paulding told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "Love" on Feb. 15, 2022.
How I’ve learned to turn tough endings into promising new beginnings.
Maria Reveiz told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "A Fresh Start" on Sept. 14, 2021.
How embracing my authentic self transformed my life.
Allen Juneau told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "A Fresh Start" on Sept. 14, 2021.
How a 500-mile hike helped me come to terms with mom guilt.
Jodi Buchan told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "A Fresh Start" on Sept. 14, 2021.
How I learned to put out the dumpster fire of self-doubt.
Jess Severe told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "A Fresh Start" on Sept. 14, 2021.
How I went from a life of crime to helping others find a second chance.
Charles Brewton told this story at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "A Fresh Start" on Sept. 14, 2021.
When literally nothing goes right, how do you respond? By choosing joy over everything else.
As presented at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next" on Feb. 25, 2020. Learn more about the series or get tickets to future shows at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
When life handed lemons to this lawyer, she made lemonade (and hot fudge pudding cake and quiche and cheese bread).
As presented at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next" on Feb. 25, 2020. Learn more about the series or get tickets to future shows at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
How an Iowan’s long-term stay in Macedonia taught her to focus on what happens now.
As presented at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next" on Feb. 25, 2020. Learn more about the series or get tickets to future shows at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
How a near-death experience taught this cancer doctor how to truly live.
As presented at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next" on Feb. 25, 2020. Learn more about the series or get tickets to future shows at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
How putting words of loss on paper turned into something special.
As presented at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next" on Feb. 25, 2020. Learn more about the series or get tickets to future shows at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
As an anchor at WHO-HD, Erin Kiernan has put her life in the spotlight. During the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next" she shares a part of her life hidden from the bright lights and TV cameras — the highs and lows of trying to start a family.
Learn more about the series or get tickets to future shows at DesMoinesRegister.com/Storytellers.
Christmas is a minister’s busy season — and it’s not always very jolly. But this Iowan learned that the darkest time of year may be when people need the most light.
This immigrant discovered his passion for balloon art in Iowa and, two decades later, uses it to spread holiday cheer.
How this Iowan navigated a new world in America while trying to hold on to the most prized tradition of her Mexican upbringing: Christmas.
After suppressing ‘Spirit’ for years, Rachel Corpus finally learned how to share her gift.
Encountering the heartwarming, the hair-raising and the hilarious while sorting out other people’s things.
This Iowan always wanted to believe in the supernatural. Then her daughters began seeing ghosts in her home.
After her mother’s death, Sandra Rohrer embraced forgiveness and healing while facing her life’s two big mysteries — Who is she? And will her mother’s murder ever be solved?
When Andy Wilson lost his family, he learned forgiveness is what he needed to move on. Originally told at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "On Second Thought: Ideas reconsidered and lessons learned."
Why this Iowan switches diets, and why that’s none of your business. Originally told at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "On Second Thought: Ideas reconsidered and lessons learned."
How one Iowan’s view of the Indian Child Welfare Act changed after losing her child to the system. Originally told at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "On Second Thought: Ideas reconsidered and lessons learned."
Becoming the first female warden of Iowa’s toughest prison. Originally told at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "On Second Thought: Ideas reconsidered and lessons learned."
How an 18-year-old pursued his athletic dreams in a little state called Iowa. Originally told at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "On Second Thought: Ideas reconsidered and lessons learned."
Ryan Siskow talks about the importance of opening up to those you love most and coming home. Originally told at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "On Second Thought: Ideas reconsidered and lessons learned."
How a dream to folk-n-roll on the road became an inward journey
The Des Moines Storytellers Project’s My Great Adventure, produced by the Des Moines Register, on April 23, 2019, at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.
Why this Iowan signed up to go to war at 58
The Des Moines Storytellers Project’s My Great Adventure, produced by the Des Moines Register, on April 23, 2019, at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.
A 22-year journey to the top
The Des Moines Storytellers Project’s My Great Adventure, produced by the Des Moines Register, on April 23, 2019, at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.
How lessons learned in the Alaskan bush make their way into this Iowa teacher’s classroom every day.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project’s My Great Adventure, produced by the Des Moines Register, on April 23, 2019, at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.
How a refugee went from living in a Thailand camp to navigating the hard twists and turns of the United States.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project’s My Great Adventure, produced by the Des Moines Register, on April 23, 2019, at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.
How a self-described ‘moron’ found himself alone above the Arctic Circle.
The Des Moines Storytellers Project’s My Great Adventure, produced by the Des Moines Register, on April 23, 2019, at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.
Major Jodi Marti joined the Iowa Army National Guard — and lead the first female engagement team in Afghanistan.
Joining the military is family tradition. But it wasn’t until 1st Sgt. Sara Maniscalco Robinson volunteered for a military museum that she realized her calling.
Joining the Iowa National Guard to pay for college, 1st Lt. Miranda Pleggenkuhle’s perspective is transformed when her younger sister joined, too.
He signed on the dotted line, but Larry Wohlgemuth had no idea what he was to come. An honorably discharged airman 1st class reflects on his time in bootcamp.
Brian Lenz, a retired Air Force fuels officer, was on the last flight out of Vietnam in 1973. He hasn’t spoken about his deployment since.
Before immigrating to America, he spent some of his youth in a Cambodian child labor camp. Here’s why Staff Sgt. James Suong decided to serve.
Kay Graham’s big sister, always quick with advice, taught her a new word she’d soon regret using. It was just one piece of an unforgettable trip together.
After immigrating to the U.S. from India, Amar Sinha knew he needed his other siblings to be whole and not wobble.
How his brother’s suicide taught Craig VandeVenter the importance of saying people’s names out loud.
Jovan Johnson thought there were cracks in the foundation of his family. Turns out, they opened to a door instead.
For Colleen Kelly Powell, It turns out, Des Moines is an easy place to run into a half-sibling who may or may not know you exist.
How this Iowa family used the NFL draft process to select their prize-winning show pigs.
Brandi Preul grew up in rural Iowa with all the privileges a successful white family could have. Then she heard how other minorities were disdained, which led to some personal reckonings.
Growing up in rural Iowa, Deb Brown was never able to converse with her German-speaking grandmother. But the lessons she learned still resonate.
Come rain, sleet or snow, small-town folk do what it takes to take care of their neighbors.
Finding love is hard. Trying to find a decades-long love like your dairy farmer grandparents is even harder.
When Clemen Wilcox’s husband got her a DNA test for Christmas, she never considered she’d be surprised by the results.
Actress Jami Bassman Ahart had taken every step she could think of to become a mother before surrendering to the likelihood it wasn’t going to happen.
Growing up in a family of Holocaust survivors, Brad Biren was taught he’d always be a foreigner in a foreign land.
Trevor Soderstrum had an idea to get rich. But this new business plan didn't turn out how he expected — and it led to him experiencing the worst punishment ever.
As a reporter, Lee Rood is normally the person behind the story. But when she became the story, she confronted truths about her industry and herself in ways she never imagined.
At one point in his life, Chad Hartzler gambled more than $20,000 a day. He eventually went to prison, where he confronted the roots of his addiction and the realities of a broken penal system.
Elle Wignall loved Ireland. But when she moved there on a whim, her desire to make friends became so all-encompassing that she found herself on the wrong side of the law.
Facing death on the fire department is part of the job, but after his father dies, Brian O'Keefe gains a deeper understanding of how to serve the loved ones left behind.
When a role-playing game spurred Dani to explore her feelings for a character, she recognized something deep within herself: Something she'd buried long ago.
A Des Moines native who never planned to return to her hometown, Dani Ausen couldn't resist Beaverdale’s siren song. A graphic designer, event organizer (Market Day) and small business entrepreneur (daniAWESOME accessories), Dani's super powers include parallel parking and defeating Super Mario Brothers on NES in under 10 minutes.
On a remote trek to see the solar eclipse from a mountain, a friend suffered a stroke – spurring Kelley and fellow travelers to action as they worked, against the odds and terrain, to get Nancy to safety.
A native Iowan with degrees in both human and veterinary medicine, Kelley Donham worked for 40 years as a professor of public health. He lives near Iowa City and enjoys writing short stories, working on his farm and spending time with his wife, Jean, two sons, a grandson and dogs.
On her death bed, Doua’s mother urged him to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. But the hurdles facing the multi-lingual cadet only mounted.
Born in Laos, Doua Lor attended Iowa State University before joining the Des Moines Police Department where he built the Asian Outreach Program. Lor says he is married a wonderful woman and has four beautiful kids. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2017.
Estranged from her father, Leslie prayed for one last chance to connect with him in Peru. The experience moved her to give to a friend what she couldn’t to her dad.
From Lima, Peru. Leslie Day came to the United States in December 2003 and moved to Iowa in 2004. She studied architecture at Iowa State, where she graduated with a master’s degree. She currently lives in Ames with her 11-year-old son, Tristan, and her mom, Mina.
Facing single motherhood, Meghan chose to keep her healthy baby boy. When he was born, all she heard was silence.
A Des Moines native, Meghan Malloy is a fixture at the Downtown Farmers' Market and concerts at Wooly’s. She owns Malloy Lobbying & Law Firm and serves as general counsel of Heartland Strategies. She’s married to Dr. Christopher Disbro and has two sons, Judah, 8, and Luca, 1.
A nurse once told Sarah she had a “million dollar family.” Yet her daughter’s prognosis meant a challenging reality: One that transformed Sarah and those around her.
Originally from southeast Iowa, Sarah Turnbull graduated from Central College in Pella. After college, she worked in the insurance industry in Des Moines before falling in love with a Dutch boy and returning to Pella where she lives with her husband, three children, and runs her photography studio.
The steam engine of hip hop roars through Emmett Phillip's life, but when he reaches a crossroads professionally, he must look at the track he's on and where he wants to be.
About Emmett: A facilitator for the Children and Family Urban Movement’s Backyard Boyz after school program, Emmett is a hip-hop artist, teaching artist, and actor who’s performed at The Julliard School. Emmett is passionate about sharing the transformative experience of performance with youth as a tool for empowerment and self-expression.
Mourning the death of her husband, Christina Fernandez-Morrow navigates the dubious world of online dating as a widow and discovers the expansive nature of love.
About Christina: A Chicago native who ditched corporate America, Christina now runs nonprofits and launches cool initiatives like the Warren Morrow Latin Music Festival. She is a published author and blogger. When not writing, or negotiating band contracts, she bikes local trails with her daughter, knits and plans international adventures.
Teaching the art of self expression to her drama students, Jodi Jinks encourages her college class to explore the controversial natural of gender politics — a lesson that challenges her personal convictions about free speech.
About Jodi: Her first life was spent acting — on Broadway, a national tour, and throughout the regions. Jodi's second one consisted of teaching in higher ed and raising her beautiful son, Leo. Her current life is an exciting mystery, but she continues to teach and direct through her prison theatre program, ArtsAloud.
Returning from military deployment a changed man, Nate Schultz shares a humorous journey of personal growth that expands his culinary skills and shifts his personal perceptions.
About Nate: A military contractor who instructs National Guard units, Nate is originally from Dubuque and moved to Des Moines in January of 2016. Nate lives in Beaverdale with his girlfriend and constantly speculates about future pets. In his spare time he likes to mountain bike and play guitar.
After immigrating to Iowa, Robert Nishimwe is surrounded by a new language and culture, and struggles to embrace his identity as an African and a black man.
About Robert: A senior at North High School, Robert serves as a student member of the Iowa State Board of Education and is the founder of North C.O.R.E. (Community of Racial Equity for Advancement). He has been recognized for his work within the community by the ACLU of Iowa.
After being laid off from his factory job, Steve Taylor struggles with his career — until he hears an unexpected spiritual call that upends the trajectory of his life's work.
About Steve: Now retired, Steve lives in Pleasant Hill with Jean, his wife. He writes a column and covers Southeast Polk High School sports for the Altoona Herald. He enjoys sports and has been a runner for close to 40 years. Jean and Steve have two children and four grandchildren.
Tony Streeter sold everything he owned and went on a yearlong trip a few years ago. He’d hoped to find himself. Instead, he got so, so lost.
A longtime member of the Des Moines Public Schools board, Jonathan Wilson was forced to come out publicly as a gay man in 1995. If you think you know the rest of the story, you don’t.
Most newspaper reporters cover at least one good scandal. Not many get to see how that scandal ripples outward to family, friends, co-workers and entire communities. Gunner did.
Sue Woods never looked like anyone in her family. Then, a picture on ancestory.com changed everything and sent her on adventure to find her home, her family and herself.
Sometimes people keep secrets because they can’t bear to acknowledge the truth — even to themselves. This is how Rekha found herself deep within just that sort of secret.
Jacqui Kalin played basketball from age 6 to age 26. When she realized she didn’t want to play anymore, she had to figure out how to move forward.
In first grade, Bill Blank wanted to get into a fight. Three decades later, that fight has morphed from a schoolyard brawl to a life-changing event.
This is the story of how Abe Goldstien became an accordion player. And, yes, he’s heard all the jokes.
When Torina Gedler had a brain injury at 14, the star student discovered that she would longer use ball points with names like Velocity and Atlantis. No, she was stuck with the “bratwurst pen.”
JJ Kapur was 2 years old on 9/11. As a Sikh, he wears a turban, leaving him open to the Islamophobia that pervades certain corners of American culture. The Turbantors are his response.